Michael Jordan, LeBron James, Mark Parker and More Take the #ALSicebucketchallenge

A viral phenomenon for a great cause, the ALS Ice Bucket Challenge has helped to raise $31.5 million in donations to the ALS Association, compared to $1.9 million during the same time period last year (July 29 to August 20). According to the organization, these donations have come from existing donors and 637,527 new donors. ALS — short for amyotrophic lateral sclerosis and commonly known as Lou Gehrig’s disease — is nothing short of devastating. The disorder presently affects about 30,000 Americans, attacking nerve cells and ultimately leading to total paralysis, even as the mind remains largely unaffected. The ice bucket challenge — in which participants film themselves dumping ice water over their heads, then call on friends to do the same or donate $100 to the fight against ALS — is meant to raise awareness for the disease, and the inscription of various celebrities has furthered the cause. Some notable participants include Michael Jordan, LeBron James, Nike CEO Mark Parker and Bill Gates. Check out the videos below.